The gist

Platform workers' rights debated; Bill to support S'pore's energy transition passed

In a wide-ranging debate that lasted more than four hours on Sept 9, MPs exchanged views over platform workers' rights and protecting them, as well as potential cost pressures for businesses arising from the resultant cost increases.

The debate will continue on Sept 10.

Singapore has also proposed a ban on deepfakes and digitally manipulated content of candidates during elections.

And earlier in the sitting, several proposals were introduced in the Energy Transition Measures and Other Amendments Bill, which aims to secure and safeguard Singapore's energy supply. The Bill was passed.

Here are the key takeaways:

ABOUT 2,500 VISITORS REFUSED ENTRY AT SINGAPORE'S CHECKPOINTS EVERY MONTH

Concerns about border security measures were raised in Parliament in the light of incidents such as a Bangladeshi extremist preacher entering Singapore and preaching to migrant workers in August, and a recent spate of burglaries allegedly linked to foreign syndicates involving Chinese nationals.

Since automated immigration lanes were introduced for all foreigners at Changi Airport in May, a higher percentage of travellers have been refused entry into Singapore. Every month, about 2,500 visitors are refused entry at Singapore's checkpoints for various reasons, said Minister for Home Affairs K. Shanmugam.

Minister of State for Home Affairs Sun Xueling said that with automated clearance, advanced checks and technology - including biometrics - can be used more extensively for screening and risk assessment.

WHY IT MATTERS

A visa-free arrangement with China came into effect in February 2024, allowing holders of Chinese passports to be exempted from visa requirements for stays of up to 30 days in Singapore.

Ms Sun said there has been no increase in the number or percentage of short-term visitors from China getting arrested in Singapore since the exemption was implemented.